Thousands of motorcycle riders are killed or seriously injured in traffic accidents every year in the United States.
Most motorcycle crashes are due to the negligence of other drivers.
Some Of The Most Commonly Cited Causes Of These Accidents Are:
- Cutting off motorcycle riders at an intersection
- Failure to yield
- Following too closely
- Swerving in front of a motorcyclist
- Distraction
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence
It happens too often that drivers are not paying attention and are not vigilant in watching out for motorcyclists who have just as much right to using the road than four-wheeled vehicles.
Personal Injury Coverage For Motorcycle Accident Victims
It happens far too often that insurance companies are complicating the process of collecting damages relating to motorcycle accidents.
Massachusetts law requires all auto insurance policies to include personal injury protection (PIP) insurance to make provision for lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses up to a certain amount regardless of who’s fault the accident was. However, in the case of policies covering motorcycles in this state, there is no requirement for having personal injury protection insurance. Unfortunately, this means a rider or passenger of a bike will most likely not be able to claim for PIP coverage in the event of an accident.
By contacting a lawyer that specialises in Massachusetts motorcycle accidents, you can obtain the necessary legal assistance to assist you with your personal injury compensation claim.
Passenger Injuries
It is essential for motorcycle drivers to have health care insurance and possibly other forms of coverage. A motorcyclist who is at fault for a crash may be held personally responsible to cover the costs relating to a passenger’s injury.
When the motorcycle driver is not at fault, the injured person may seek compensation from the responsible driver’s insurance company. To prove that you are not at fault for causing the crash, it is necessary to show negligent behaviour on the part of the other party, resulting in the motorcyclist’s or his passenger ’s death or injuries.
Avoid any discussions with the insurance companies unless you have consulted with your lawyer. In cases where negotiation with the insurance company proved to be unsuccessful, the option of litigation can be explored.
Damages Of Motorcycle Accidents
A person involved in a motorbike accident has less protection as opposed to someone in a motor vehicle. Therefore, injuries are often severe or fatal, especially when the rider has been ejected.
The injuries often include:
- Road rash
- Severe lacerations, cuts or bruises
- Facial injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal injuries
- Bone fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
Individuals who survive will often require extensive medical care such as surgery, medication and rehabilitation. In some cases, the person will be permanently disabled.
In Addition To The Medical Expenses, An Attorney Must Also Claim For Damages That May Include:
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, make sure you contact a personal injury law firm to discuss the facts of your case and how best to proceed.
